Where is Panama Located?

Where is Panama located on the map? Panama is an independent nation located in North America. Check out the following images to see location of Panama on maps.

Panama Location in World Map

Location Information of Panama

Latitude and Longitude

Panama is located in Central America, bordered by Costa Rica to the west, Colombia to the east, the Caribbean Sea to the north, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. The country’s approximate geographic coordinates are 8.5375° N latitude and 80.7821° W longitude. Panama is strategically positioned at the narrowest point of the isthmus that connects North and South America, making it an important transit point for trade and travel. Panama’s location between two oceans and its proximity to the Panama Canal are significant for global shipping routes, facilitating international commerce and travel.

With a land area of 75,000 square miles (194,000 square kilometers), Panama serves as a natural bridge between two continents and boasts diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforests and mountain ranges to beautiful coastlines along both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.

Capital City and Major Cities

Capital City: Panama City

The capital of Panama is Panama City, located at the Pacific end of the Panama Canal. Panama City is the largest and most populous city in the country, with a population of over 1.5 million in the metropolitan area. It is the political, economic, and cultural center of Panama. The city has a vibrant skyline with modern skyscrapers, as well as historic colonial-era neighborhoods such as Casco Viejo, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Panama City is also known for its waterfront views, cultural attractions, and proximity to the Panama Canal. Key landmarks include the Panama Canal Museum, Amador Causeway, and Panama Viejo (the ruins of the old city).

Major Cities

1. Colón: Located at the Caribbean end of the Panama Canal, Colón is Panama’s second-largest city. It has a population of around 200,000 people. Colón is known for its strategic location as a key port city and its Free Trade Zone, one of the largest in the world. The city serves as an important hub for maritime trade and is home to the Colón Free Trade Zone and Cristóbal Port. Visitors can explore historical landmarks such as Colón Cathedral and the Fort San Lorenzo, located near the entrance to the Panama Canal.
2. David: Located in the western province of Chiriquí, David is Panama’s third-largest city, with a population of around 150,000. It is an important commercial and agricultural hub, especially known for the cultivation of coffee, citrus fruits, and bananas. David serves as a gateway to the Boquete and Bocas del Toro regions, which are known for their natural beauty, coffee plantations, and eco-tourism.
3. La Chorrera: La Chorrera is located just west of Panama City and has a population of around 100,000 people. It is known for its proximity to the Panama Canal and for being a key part of Panama’s agricultural and industrial sector. The town is famous for its waterfalls and nearby attractions such as El Valle de Antón, a volcanic crater valley known for its cool climate and natural beauty.
4. Santiago: Santiago is located in the central part of the country, in the Veraguas Province. It has a population of around 70,000 people. Santiago is known for its agricultural significance and its location near Panama’s interior mountains. The city serves as a base for exploring the coastal regions of Panama and the Panama Canal.
5. Penonomé: Penonomé is located in the central region of Panama, with a population of approximately 50,000 people. The city is known for its agriculture, particularly in the production of rice and sugarcane. Penonomé is also an important transportation hub, connecting the central and eastern regions of the country.

Time Zone

Panama operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is UTC -5:00. Panama does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST), so the time remains constant throughout the year. This time zone places Panama in the same time zone as cities like New York, Toronto, and Bogotá, but it is not subject to seasonal shifts in time.

Climate

Panama has a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The country is located close to the equator, which gives it warm temperatures throughout the year. However, Panama’s climate can vary due to its geographical diversity, including coastal areas, mountains, and rainforests.

1. Dry Season (December to April)

The dry season in Panama runs from December to April, characterized by warm temperatures and little rain. During this time, the country experiences sunny weather, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 32°C (81°F to 90°F). This period is considered the best time to visit Panama for tourists who want to explore its outdoor attractions and beaches.

2. Wet Season (May to November)

The wet season in Panama lasts from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall occurring from July to October. During this time, temperatures are slightly cooler but still remain between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). The rainy season brings tropical showers, especially in the rainforests and mountainous regions, making it a great time for eco-tourism and exploring Panama’s lush natural environments.

3. Temperature Variations

Panama’s temperature is fairly consistent year-round. The coastal areas are typically warmer and more humid, while the interior highlands such as Boquete and El Valle de Antón experience cooler temperatures due to their higher elevations. In the mountains, temperatures can dip below 20°C (68°F), offering a pleasant contrast to the hot coastal regions.

Economic Status

Panama has a diversified economy with key sectors including banking, trade, tourism, construction, and agriculture. The country’s strategic location and its Panama Canal have made it an important trade and shipping hub, contributing to its robust economy.

1. Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is the most significant aspect of the country’s economy. It serves as a critical shipping route that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. The canal generates significant revenue for Panama through tolls and related services. The government has reinvested these earnings into infrastructure projects, education, and social programs, which have driven the country’s economic growth.

2. Banking and Finance

Panama has a highly developed banking sector and is one of the world’s largest offshore banking centers. The country’s tax incentives, financial privacy laws, and the use of the U.S. dollar as the official currency have attracted international banks and financial institutions to establish operations in Panama. The financial services sector is a key contributor to the country’s GDP.

3. Tourism

Tourism is a growing sector in Panama, with the country offering a wide range of attractions, from rainforests and beaches to historic sites and the Panama Canal. The country is recognized as a top destination for eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural exploration. Panama’s tourist industry includes hotels, luxury resorts, and cruise ships, with Panama City and Bocas del Toro being major destinations for international visitors.

4. Agriculture

Agriculture remains an important sector of the economy, particularly in rural areas. Panama is a major exporter of bananas, coffee, sugarcane, and pineapples. The country is also known for its production of cocoa, rice, and cattle. Panama’s agricultural exports are particularly important to countries in the United States and Europe.

5. Construction and Infrastructure

The construction sector in Panama is experiencing rapid growth, driven by significant investment in infrastructure, particularly in real estate and public works. The construction of the Panama Canal expansion project and new residential, commercial, and tourism developments have spurred economic activity in this sector.

6. Challenges

Despite its growing economy, Panama faces challenges such as income inequality, poverty in rural areas, and a reliance on foreign investment and trade. The country is also working to improve its education system and social infrastructure.

Tourist Attractions

1. Panama Canal The Panama Canal is the country’s most famous landmark and a must-see for any visitor. The Miraflores Locks in Panama City offer visitors the chance to see massive ships passing through the canal, and the Panama Canal Museum provides an in-depth look at the canal’s history and significance.
2. Bocas del Toro Located on the Caribbean coast, Bocas del Toro is an archipelago known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and tropical wildlife. It is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and eco-tourism, with attractions like Red Frog Beach and Starfish Beach.
3. Boquete Boquete, located in the Chiriquí Highlands, is known for its cooler climate, coffee plantations, and scenic hiking trails. The Volcán Barú, Panama’s highest peak, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Boquete is also known for its flower festivals and thriving coffee tourism.
4. Casco Viejo Casco Viejo is the historic district of Panama City, known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features landmarks like Plaza Francia, the Palacio de las Garzas, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
5. San Blas Islands The San Blas Islands, an archipelago of over 300 islands off the Caribbean coast, is a pristine destination known for its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and indigenous Guna Yala culture. The islands offer visitors an authentic and serene tropical experience.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 180 days in Panama for tourism, business, or family visits. A valid U.S. passport is required, and it must remain valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure date. For longer stays or for work purposes, U.S. citizens must apply for a long-term visa or residency through the Panamanian consulate.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

Distance to New York City

The distance from New York City to Panama City is approximately 3,000 kilometers (1,860 miles). Flights from New York to Panama typically take around 4 to 5 hours, depending on layovers.

Distance to Los Angeles

The distance from Los Angeles to Panama City is approximately 4,000 kilometers (2,485 miles). Flights from Los Angeles to Panama typically take about 5 to 6 hours.

Panama Facts

Size	75,517 km²
Residents	4.17 million
Language	Spanish (official language)
Capital	Panama City (in Spanish: Panamá)
Longest river	Río Chucunaque (231 km)
Highest mountain	Volcán Barú (3,477 m)
Currency	Balboa and US dollars